Episode 2353: From Charity to the New Adam - Nightly Episode

“O my God, at the end of this day I thank You most heartily for all the graces I have received from You. I am sorry that I have not made better use of them. I am sorry for all the sins I have committed against You. Forgive me, O my God, and graciously protect me this night. Blessed Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly mother, take me under your protection. St. Joseph, my dear Guardian Angel, and all you saints in heaven, pray for me. Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor sinners, and save them from hell. Have mercy on the suffering souls in purgatory. Amen”
From Charity to the New Adam
Tonight, we delve into the wisdom of St. Bridget of Sweden and the profound insights of Scott Hahn to uncover the true essence of Christian living. We will explore how our actions must align with our words, the source of true justice, and the fulfillment of God's divine plan through Jesus Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Call to Authentic Living
Let's begin with the profound words of St. Bridget of Sweden:
"To write well and speak well is mere vanity if one does not live well. The source of justice is not vengeance but charity."
St. Bridget's statement challenges us to reflect on the authenticity of our Christian witness. It’s not enough to articulate our faith eloquently; we must embody it in our daily lives. The credibility of our words hinges on the integrity of our actions. As Catholics, we are called to live out the Gospel through acts of charity, love, and justice. This aligns with the teaching of Jesus, who emphasized that true greatness in His kingdom is measured by our capacity to serve and love others.
The Source of True Justice
St. Bridget further reminds us that the source of justice is not vengeance but charity. This is a radical departure from the world's view of justice, which often seeks retribution. Christian justice, rooted in charity, seeks the good of the other, even at a personal cost. It mirrors the divine justice of God, who, in His mercy, offers forgiveness and redemption rather than punishment. This perspective invites us to approach conflicts and wrongdoings with a heart open to reconciliation and healing.
The Fulfillment of God's Plan
Scott Hahn provides a broader theological context that connects our personal call to live justly with God's overarching plan:
"Creation’s initial monarchy would not achieve God’s purpose—nor would the Davidic monarchy—but something later would. A New Adam—Jesus—would reign, as had been foreshadowed in the garden and in the courts of Solomon. The New Adam, the new Davidic monarch, would reign with His bride, the New Eve, and she would be a real historical woman, whom Revelation would identify with the Church. She would be mother of the living. She would be advocate of the people. She would be queen mother. She would be Mary."
Hahn's reflection highlights the fulfillment of God's plan through Jesus Christ, the New Adam, and Mary, the New Eve. Unlike the first Adam and Eve, who brought sin into the world, Jesus and Mary bring redemption and life. Jesus' reign is marked by a new covenant of love and mercy, and Mary, as the mother of the Church, intercedes for us and guides us towards her Son. This divine plan invites us to participate in the life of grace and to model our lives after Christ and Mary.
Living the Gospel in Our Lives
As we reflect on these teachings, we are called to integrate them into our daily lives. Living well, as St. Bridget urges, means aligning our actions with our faith, ensuring that our pursuit of justice is driven by charity. By doing so, we become true witnesses to the Gospel, embodying the love and mercy of Christ in our interactions with others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, let us remember that our faith is not just a matter of words but of lived experience. St. Bridget of Sweden and Scott Hahn remind us of the importance of living authentically and justly, guided by charity. As we strive to follow Christ, the New Adam, and seek the intercession of Mary, the New Eve, let us commit to living out the Gospel in all aspects of our lives.

Thank you for joining us on "Faith and Reflection." May God bless you and keep you as you strive to live a life of true Christian witness. Until next time, peace be with you.